Disability constituency condemns empty '2030' sloganeering

HARARE - People living with disabilities have criticised the widespread chanting of "2030" slogans, arguing that the rhetoric is meaningless without tangible empowerment, inclusive policies and real improvements to their daily lives.

Speaking at a press conference held alongside a belated Christmas hampers distribution event, Musavengana Agri, Harare Chairperson of People With Disabilities for Economic Development (PWDs4ED), said the disability community continues to be sidelined despite being invoked in political messaging.

"What's the point of chanting 2030 if we're still begging for basic rights and empowerment?" Musavengana said.

"We need inclusive policies, accessible infrastructure and economic opportunities, not empty slogans," he added.

Musavengana said people with disabilities have long felt marginalised and excluded from development programmes, citing poor accessibility, limited employment opportunities and inadequate social support.

"We won't be used as props for political agendas. Meanwhile, there is much stereotyping in our constituency since everyone is labelling us kuti tiri vanhu veSocial Welfare," he said.

He stressed that the 2030 vision should translate into empowerment rather than continued marginalisation.

The remarks come amid growing frustration within the disability community over what they describe as slow progress and lack of meaningful government action on disability‑related issues.